Coconut Milk for Hair: Benefits, Side Effects, How to Use & More

Coconut milk is a delicious and nutritious addition to any diet, and it can also be used to improve hair health. In this post, we'll discuss the benefits of coconut milk for hair, its side effects, how to use it, and more. So whether you're looking to improve your scalp health or add some shine to your locks, read on for all the info you need!

How to Make Coconut Milk

If you're looking for a natural way to improve your hair and scalp health, coconut milk may be the solution. Coconut milk is loaded with nutrients and minerals such as vitamin B12, vitamin C, iron, magnesium, and phosphorus that can help treat a variety of hair problems, including dryness, frizziness, split ends, and more. Coconut milk is especially great for curly or wavy hair because it's rich in proteins and vitamins that can help rebuild damaged strands.

To make coconut milk for the hair:

• Take a can of full-fat coconut milk and pour it into a blender.
• Gradually add enough water until it forms a smooth consistency.
• For best results, use this coconut milk as a scalp treatment once a week. You can also use it as a conditioner.

An alternative way to make coconut milk for hair is as below:

• Soak some unsweetened shredded coconut in water overnight.
• The next day, drain the water and blend the coconut until it's smooth. With the help of a strainer, squeeze the milk out from the blended coconut in a separate container.
• Store the coconut milk in a glass container in the fridge for up to three days.

Coconut Milk Benefits for Hair

As per studies, coconut milk has long been known for its endless list of health benefits, such as controlling high blood pressure, maintaining heart health, and as it turns out, it also has some great hair benefits. Coconut milk is a rich source of essential fatty acids, minerals, and vitamins that are good for hair growth and repair.

Some of the key benefits of coconut milk for hair include:

1. Healthy Scalp

Coconut milk contains lauric acid. Studies show that lauric acid has antimicrobial properties that prevent scalp infection and maintain a healthy, dandruff-free scalp.

2. Prevents Hair Damage

The vitamin E content in coconut milk helps prevent hair damage by fighting against the free radicals generated due to stress, heat, and pollution.

3. Hair and Scalp Nourishment

As per a study, vitamins like B12, C, and E and minerals like iron and zinc present in coconut milk prevent hair loss and are essential in nourishing hair and scalp.

4. Dry Hair Rejuvenation

As per a study, extracts of coconut, such as coconut milk, prevent hair damage and help moisturise dry hair.

5. Coconut Milk for Hair Growth

Coconut milk is a great ingredient for hair growth because it contains vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids that benefit hair and the scalp. One of the most important nutrients that coconut milk contains is lauric acid. This compound has been shown to help promote hair growth and prevent hair loss by increasing the production of sebum (a natural oil found on the skin).

In addition, coconut milk contains other vitamins and minerals essential for hair and scalp health, including vitamin E, zinc, manganese, copper, and magnesium. These nutrients help reduce inflammation in the scalp, improve circulation, and improve your hair's overall texture and moisture levels. All in all, adding coconut milk to your diet and applying it to your hair can help you achieve thicker locks faster!

6. Coconut Milk for Hair Loss

Coconut milk is a great choice for people looking for natural hair loss remedies. Coconut milk has been shown to be effective in restoring hair growth and preventing hair loss. Here are some of the benefits of coconut milk for hair loss:

• Coconut milk contains lauric acid, which is a natural compound that has been shown to help prevent hair loss and promote hair growth.
• Coconut milk also contains antioxidants that help protect the scalp against damage caused by free radicals.
• Coconut milk helps restore lost moisture and elasticity in the hair follicles, which helps promote hair growth.
• Coconut milk is a rich source of potassium and other minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants that are beneficial for overall hair health.

One of the main benefits of coconut milk for hair loss is its ability to improve the overall balance of moisture and oil in the scalp. This promotes healthy hair growth by increasing natural oil production and preventing excess sebum accumulation. Coconut milk also contains vitamin E, which has been shown to help protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals.

9 Best Coconut Milk Treatments for Hair Growth

Coconut milk is a well-known hair growth treatment due to its anti-inflammatory properties. It also contains medium-chain fatty acids (MCTs), which promote hair growth and boost the immune system. Coconut milk is becoming increasingly popular as a natural way to promote hair growth.

Below are the nine best coconut milk treatments for hair growth:

1. Coconut Milk Shampoo

This gentle shampoo can be used on any type of hair. It is made by mixing coconut milk with other ingredients, like apple cider vinegar or honey, and applying it to wet hair. The mixture dissolves quickly in water, making it easy to lather and rinse.

Preparation: Add one-fourth cup of coconut milk to 2-3 tablespoons of baby shampoo. Mix them well and add 1 teaspoon of honey and a few drops of olive oil to the mixture.

Directions: Apply the prepared mixture to wet hair. Massage for 10-15 minutes, and then wash off with cold water.

2. Coconut Milk Serum

This serum can be prepared at home. It helps improve blood circulation in the scalp and promotes hair growth by nourishing it from the inside out.

Preparation: Mix coconut milk (4 tablespoons), olive oil (1 tablespoon), and honey (1 tablespoon) in a glass bowl.

Directions: Massage your hair with the mixture and leave it on for 30-45 minutes. Wash your hair with normal water.

3. Coconut Milk Conditioner

This coconut milk conditioner is packed with essential oils and biotin for deep conditioning and repairing damaged hair follicles. It helps smoothen frizzled hair and prevent breakage while increasing shine and volume up to 50%.

Preparation: Prepare this conditioner at home by mixing ¼ cup of coconut milk with 2 tablespoons of honey.

Directions: Apply the mixture to the roots of your hair. Wash your hair with a mild shampoo after an hour.

4. Coconut Oil and Coconut Milk Hair Mask

Made from coconut oil, coconut milk, and water, this mask helps nourish your hair while promoting shiny locks. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce frizz and promote healthy scalp skin.

Preparation: Prepare this hair mask by adding a few drops of coconut oil to 4 tablespoons of coconut milk and 1 teaspoon of water.

Directions: Simply apply a thin layer to your hair, massaging it into the scalp until it's fully absorbed. Rinse it with normal water after 30 minutes.

5. Curly Girl Coconut Milk Hair Mask

Similar to the previous mask, this one also contains coconut milk but also olive oil, honey, and yeast extract to boost hair growth and repair damage caused by stress or heat styling.

Preparation: Add 1 teaspoon of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of honey, and 1 tablespoon of yoghurt to 4-5 tablespoons of coconut milk. Mix well to form a smooth paste.

Directions: Apply the mixture to wet hair (after showering), scrunching it up until it's fully absorbed. Leave on for 30 minutes before shampooing normally.

6. Lemon Coconut Milk Conditioner

Lemon juice is a rich source of vitamin C and is effective in dandruff reduction.

Preparation: Mix 2 teaspoons of lemon juice with 4 tablespoons of coconut milk and keep the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.

Directions: Apply the mixture to your scalp and leave it for 30-45 minutes for nourishment. Rinse the mixture off with normal water.

7. Honey and Coconut Milk Shampoo

Coconut milk and honey are two natural ingredients that are great for hair growth. They are both rich in moisture, which is essential for keeping the hair healthy and protected from damage.

Mix 4 tablespoons of coconut milk with 2 teaspoons of honey and gently massage your scalp. Keep the mixture for 30 minutes, then rinse it with normal water. This treatment will improve the appearance and strength of your hair while preventing it from becoming dry or brittle. You can use this treatment once a week to achieve the best results.

8. Coconut Milk and Aloe Vera

Coconut milk and aloe vera are two ingredients that have been traditionally used to promote hair growth. Coconut milk is a natural moisturiser, while aloe vera has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce hair loss and promote scalp health.

To use aloe vera coconut milk for hair growth:

• Mix 1 cup of aloe vera juice with 2 cups of coconut milk and apply the mixture to your scalp as a treatment.
• Leave the mixture on for 30 minutes.
• Wash it off with normal water.

9. Coconut Milk and Yoghurt

Yoghurt is rich in lactic acid and thus beneficial in keeping the scalp moisturised and nourished.

Preparation: Mix ½ cup of yoghurt to 4 tablespoons of coconut milk. You may add a few drops of any essential oil.

Directions: Apply on wet hair and rinse it after 15-20 minutes.

Coconut Milk Hair Pack

If you have dry hair, using coconut milk as a hair pack can help to restore moisture and nourish your locks. Here are three recipes that you can try:

1. Mask of Coconut Milk and Honey

Mix 2 tablespoons of coconut milk and 1 teaspoon of honey for this mask. Apply the mixture to your hair in a thick layer, leave it on for 30 minutes, then rinse it off with warm water.

Benefits: As per a study, honey is very useful in the treatment of dandruff because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Along with coconut milk, it nourishes the hair roots.

2. Coconut Milk Mask With Avocado

For this mask, mix 1 tablespoon of coconut milk and 1 mashed avocado. Apply the mixture to your hair in a thick layer, leave it on for 30 minutes, then rinse it off with lukewarm water.

Benefits: As per a study, avocado has inherent antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, which aid in thorough scalp cleansing and promote healthy hair growth. Another study revealed that avocado is a natural skin moisturiser and maintains skin firmness. Hence it may also prevent scalp and hair dryness.

3. Coconut Milk Mask With Shredded Hibiscus

For this mask, mix 2 tablespoons of coconut milk and 1 teaspoon of shredded hibiscus flowers. Apply the mixture to your hair in a thick layer, leave it on for 30 minutes, then rinse it off with warm water.

Benefits: As per a study, hibiscus promotes hair growth and helps maintain longer and stronger hair.

How to Use Coconut Milk for Hair Growth

To use coconut milk for hair growth, mix one cup of raw organic coconut milk with three tablespoons of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice. Next, add this mixture to your shampoo bottle and shake well before using it. Coconut milk is gentle enough for everyday use.

Alternatively, apply plain coconut milk mixed with water on your scalp and massage for 5-10 minutes. Rinse it with normal water.

This promotes healthy hair growth by increasing natural oil production and preventing excess sebum accumulation. Coconut milk also contains vitamin E, which has been shown to help protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals.

Coconut Milk for Hair Side Effects

There are no reported side effects associated with coconut milk for the hair. In fact, some people even use it as a replacement for shampoo! Coconut milk is a popular ingredient in hair care products because of its nourishing properties. It has been shown to effectively repair damaged hair, prevent fly aways, and increase shine.

Some main ingredients found in coconut milk include lauric acid and medium chain triglycerides (MCTs), which work together to improve scalp health and moisturise the hair shaft. MCTs are also known to promote energy production and reduce fat storage in the body. Hence, coconut milk is the perfect affordable yet potent formulation that can benefit your hair texture and appearance.

Summing Up on Coconut Milk for Hair

Coconut milk is undoubtedly great for your hair. Besides being nutritious and tasty, the benefits of coconut milk can be felt after just a couple of uses. It repairs damaged hair, moisturises frizzy locks, and reduces the appearance of dandruff – not to mention that it improves scalp circulation.

You can try coconut milk by simply mixing one teaspoon in some water and adding it to your regular shampoo as a leave-in conditioner or deep treatment mask. Or use it straight from the jar to get stronger and shinier hair faster!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Coconut Milk Good for Hair?

Coconut milk is beneficial for hair because it contains medium chain fatty acids (MCFAs) like lauric acid, which are similar to the fats in human skin and hair. Fatty acids promote scalp health by providing essential oils, antioxidants, minerals, and amino acids that help keep the scalp hydrated and protected from damage. They are also effective at cleansing your hair follicles, preventing build-up on the roots of your locks, and promoting strand growth.

Can I Leave Coconut Milk on Hair Overnight?

No, you should not leave coconut milk on hair overnight. It is important to note that coconut milk contains high levels of lauric acid, which can cause skin irritation if left on the scalp overnight. It is recommended that you apply the coconut milk for hair growth and rinse it off after not more than 45 minutes.

Is Coconut Milk or Coconut Oil Better for Your Hair?

Coconut milk and coconut oil are both great for your hair. Coconut milk is a good choice for dry or brittle hair because it has a high level of nutrients and proteins. It also contains medium-chain fatty acids (MCTs), which are energy sources that help increase hair volume and condition.

Coconut oil, on the other hand, can be better for people with curly hair because it's rich in essential fats such as squalene, lauric acid, palmitoleic acid, linoleic acid, and stearidonic acid. These essential oils work together to moisturise the scalp and keep your locks healthy and shiny. Both options are definitely worth trying out if you're looking for enhanced haircare!

Is Coconut Milk Good for Frizzy Hair?

Coconut milk has a natural moisturising ability that can benefit frizzy hair. This is because it contains insoluble fibre and lauric acid, which help restore elasticity and keep hair healthy and hydrated. Additionally, coconut milk has anti-frizz properties thanks to its hydrating effect on the scalp. It also nourishes strands from the inside out, keeping them strong and lustrous.

References

R. A. I. Ekanayaka, October 2013; Impact of a Traditional Dietary Supplement with Coconut Milk and Soya Milk on the Lipid Profile in Normal Free Living Subjects - https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3824402/

Abdel Naser Zaid, July 2015; Ethnopharmacological survey of home remedies used for treatment of hair and scalp and their methods of preparation in the West Bank-Palestine - https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5499037/

Tahereh Eteraf-Oskouei, June 2017; Traditional and Modern Uses of Natural Honey in Human Diseases: A Review - https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3758027/

Sara M. Ferreira, March 2022; Sustainability in Skin Care: Incorporation of Avocado Peel Extracts in Topical Formulations - https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8954566/

N Adhirajan, October 2003; In vivo and in vitro evaluation of hair growth potential of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis Linn - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12963149/